South America Travel Itineraries – Your Perfect Trip, Sorted!

So, you’re planning a trip to South America? Excellent choice. Whether you’re dreaming of hiking to Machu Picchu, exploring the streets of Buenos Aires, or chasing waterfalls at Iguazú, I’ve got you covered.

Here, you’ll find handy, no-nonsense itineraries to help you make the most of your trip—whether you’ve got 48 hours, a week, or something in between. No more doom-scrolling through travel forums or ending up at that one tourist trap everyone regrets. Just solid plans, great experiences, and zero stress.

How to Use This Page:

✔️ Pick a country from the list below (Peru, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, and more).
✔️ Choose your itinerary based on how much time you have—quick city breaks or week-long adventures.
✔️ Click, plan, pack, and go live your best travel life.

Still can’t decide? Flip a coin. Or, you know, read through the itineraries below and see what speaks to your adventurous soul. Either way, happy travels! ✈️

Looking for itineraries beyond South America? Check out our Travel Itineraries Hub for Asia, Europe, Oceania, and more!

🇦🇷 Argentina

  • 48 Hours in Buenos Aires – A 2 Day Itinerary – Tango in San Telmo, explore Recoleta Cemetery, and feast on world-class steak—this two-day itinerary takes you through Buenos Aires’ neighbourhoods, cultural hotspots, and foodie musts. See the full 2-Day Buenos Aires itinerary →
  • 72 Hours in Buenos Aires – A 3 Day Itinerary – Three days in Argentina’s capital means time for a deeper dive—wander through La Boca, take in the grandeur of Teatro Colón, and experience the city’s nightlife like a local. Plan your ultimate 3-Day Buenos Aires adventure →

🇧🇷 Brazil

  • 3-Day Itinerary for Rio de Janeiro – From Christ the Redeemer to Copacabana Beach, this itinerary covers Rio’s iconic sights, hidden gems, and the best spots to soak in the city’s electric energy. Explore the full 3-Day Rio de Janeiro itinerary →

Cities

Explore South America Top Destinations

South America is a land of epic adventures, history, and cities. Whether you’re trekking through Peru’s Sacred Valley, soaking up the sun on Brazil’s beaches, or getting lost in the colourful streets of Cartagena, every destination has something unforgettable to offer.
Ready to start planning? Click on any destination below for travel guides packed with expert tips, must-see spots, and itineraries that’ll have you booking your next adventure in no time. Let’s dive in!

South America Travel FAQs: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Planning a trip to South America? Whether you’re hiking through the Andes, exploring ancient ruins in Peru, or dancing the night away in Brazil, we’ve got you covered! This FAQ guide answers all the big questions travelers ask—from visas and budgeting to transport and must-try foods.

Whether it’s your first time in South America or you’re a seasoned traveler, these tips will help you plan smarter, travel smoother, and make the most of your adventure!

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and destination:

  • Visa-Free Entry: Many countries, including Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and Peru, allow visa-free stays for travelers from the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia.
  • eVisa or Visa on Arrival: Some countries, like Bolivia and Paraguay, may require an eVisa or visa on arrival depending on your nationality.
  • Pre-Approved Visa Required: Venezuela and Suriname may require advance visas—always check before booking your flights!

📌 Pro Tip: Some countries, like Brazil and Chile, may require a reciprocity fee for certain nationalities, so research entry costs before you go.

South America can be an affordable backpacking destination or a luxury getaway, depending on your budget:

💵 Budget Travelers: $30–$60 per day (hostels, street food, public transport)
💳 Mid-Range Travel: $80–$200 per day (boutique hotels, guided tours, restaurants)
🏝 Luxury Travel: $250+ per day (5-star hotels, private tours, fine dining)

📌 Pro Tip: Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia are more budget-friendly, while Brazil, Chile, and Argentina can be pricier.

Getting around South America varies depending on the country:

✈️ Flights: The fastest way to cover long distances—LATAM, Avianca, and Gol are major airlines.
🚌 Long-Distance Buses: South America has extensive bus networks—Chile, Argentina, and Brazil have luxury overnight buses with reclining seats!
🚗 Car Rentals: Ideal for road trips in Patagonia or the Atacama Desert, but city driving can be chaotic.
🚕 Taxis & Rideshares: Uber and Cabify are available in major cities like Bogotá, Lima, and Buenos Aires.
🚆 Trains: Limited, but scenic routes exist, like the Train to the Clouds in Argentina or Ecuador’s Devil’s Nose Train.

📌 Pro Tip: Night buses are a great way to save on accommodation while covering long distances.

South America is a paradise for food lovers! Some must-try dishes include:

🇦🇷 Argentina – Asado (BBQ), Empanadas, Dulce de Leche
🇧🇷 Brazil – Feijoada (black bean stew), Pão de Queijo, Açaí bowls
🇨🇱 Chile – Pastel de Choclo, Cazuela, Completo (loaded hot dog)
🇨🇴 Colombia – Arepas, Bandeja Paisa, Ajiaco (chicken soup)
🇪🇨 Ecuador – Ceviche, Llapingachos (cheesy potato cakes), Seco de Chivo (goat stew)
🇵🇪 Peru – Ceviche, Lomo Saltado, Causa Rellena
🇧🇴 Bolivia – Salteñas, Silpancho, Sopa de Maní (peanut soup)

📌 Pro Tip: South America has incredible street food—just look for the busiest stalls for the freshest bites!

Packing depends on where you’re going—South America has everything from beaches to glaciers:

Layers & a rain jacket (weather can change fast, especially in the Andes!)
Comfortable walking shoes (for city exploring and hiking)
Bug spray & sunscreen (essential for the Amazon & coastal areas)
A power adapter (different countries use different plugs)
A reusable water bottle (stay hydrated at high altitudes!)
Motion sickness meds (bus rides through the Andes can get bumpy)

📌 Pro Tip: If you’re heading to Machu Picchu or the Salt Flats, pack warm layers—it gets cold at night, even in the dry season!

Still planning your South American trip? Check out our Solo Travel Guides and Luxury Travel Guides for more inspiration!